David Williams: check these out before you head for the track

Rental: Most riders use their own bikes and leathers, but they can be hired on-site, with leathers £35 a day. Ducati Panigale 899s cost £269, Panigale 1199s £349. I rode the Ducati Monster 1200 (£249), which was light, fast, balanced and fun.

Gear: Back protectors aren’t compulsory but they are recommended. I used the Halvarssons Buckler Level 2 (pictured), which was perfect for the job with adjustable waist and shoulder straps. Held on firmly, with broad elasticated straps secured with fat pads of grippy Velcro, it fitted neatly under the leathers and stayed in place, in comfort, all day long. It proved reasonably breathable, is washable and is claimed to offer a high level of protection. It costs £149 and is available from motorcycling experts Motolegends (motolegends.com).

Check in: With such an early start (7am) it’s best to stay somewhere local the night before. I checked into Brandshatch Place Hotel and Spa, a 10-minute ride away. With single rooms costing from £109 including breakfast, the former Georgian country home, with 12 acres of gardens, spa and gym, made the perfect start to the experience. (0845 0727395; handpickedhotels.co.uk).